New checked baggage rules for phones, laptops and other PED

The IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations for 2014 have now been published, and will come into force from 1 January 2014.

Table 2.3A, which lists the Provisions for Dangerous Goods Carried by Passengers or Crew again contains important information relating to the carriage of Portable Electronic Devices (PED) containing lithium metal or lithium ion cells or batteries, including smartphones, laptops and tablets.

These items are permitted as carry-on and checked baggage, including carriage on one’s person.

However, all spare batteries for these devices are not permitted as checked baggage, and can only be carried as carry-on baggage only. Further, these batteries must be individually protected to prevent short circuits.

As of 1 January 2014, Medical PED, including Automatic External Defibrillators and nebulisers, may also not be carried as checked baggage. They must only be carried as carry-on items.